Dr Adrian Jones, PhD MCOptom DipGlauc DipTp(IP)

I graduated with honors from the School of Optometry and Vision Science at Cardiff University in 1997. I subsequently completed my pre-registration year by passing all 10 professional exams at the first attempt. After spending 6 months in private practice I returned to Cardiff University where I completed a 4 year research post investigating new diagnostic procedures in glaucoma, gaining a PhD in the process. During my time as a post graduate I spent much time teaching clinical skills to the undergraduate students.

While I was a postgraduate student I locumed for most of the well known chains as well as many small independent practices in South Wales and South West England. I also worked part time in the refractive surgery industry which has given me invaluable knowledge and experience of refractive surgery procedures and their management, such as PRK and LASIK.

I spent about nine years working in sub-specialist glaucoma clinics at Cardiff Eye Unit at the University Hospital of Wales. I also spent four years at Bristol Eye Hospital mainly in the specialist glaucoma clinics as well as two years working in the specialist contact lens and paediatric clinic at Bristol Eye Hospital managing patients with conditions that require complex contact lenses, such as keratoconus, as well as children with squints and lazy eyes. This has given me in depth knowledge of diagnosing and managing glaucoma as well as many other eye conditions.

More recently I was one of the first 30 optometrists in the UK to have completed the specialist training and qualification in therapeutics and register as an independent prescriber. This gives me access to a much wider range of medications than ordinary optometrists, allowing me to diagnose and manage more complex eye disease. I am one of only a handful of optometrists in Wales that holds this qualification. Currently, I sit on the College of Optometrists Independent Prescribing Standards Committee. I also hold a higher qualification in glaucoma diagnosis and management.

Outside work, I have a passion for pretty much all sports – I am an active SCUBA diver, white water kayaker and cyclist. I try to spend as much time with my two young sons as possible. I am also a self confessed geek with an avid interest in technology and software programming.